Empowering IIUM Women: Self-Defense Workshop boosts Confidence and Safety

By, Aisya Kadeja binti Khairul Shazly

GOMBAK, 15 December 2024 — The Mahallah Sumayyah Representative Committee (MRC),
in collaboration with the IIUM Silat Seni Gayong Club (SSGC), successfully held a
transformative Women’s Basic Self-Defense Workshop on 16 November 2024, at the Female
Sports Complex, International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). The event attracted almost 50
enthusiastic female participants eager to acquire practical skills in self-defense and personal
safety.

Led by experienced trainers Aida Rashidah from Segi University and Sazlina Sairi, a
self-employed instructor dedicated to empowering women, the workshop provided hands-on
training in fundamental self-defense moves, situational awareness techniques, and rapid
response tactics. These skills were designed to help participants confidently navigate and
diffuse potentially dangerous situations.

Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive. “This workshop has not only equipped
us with the physical skills to protect ourselves but also boosted our confidence in facing
uncertain situations,” shared one participant. Another added, “It’s empowering to know that I
now have the skills and resilience to stand up for my safety.”

The workshop underscored IIUM’s commitment to fostering a safe and supportive environment
for women. With recent statistics from the World Health Organization indicating that one in three women globally experiences physical or sexual violence, IIUM’s initiative took a proactive
stance, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals on Gender Equality and Reduced
Inequalities.

The program concluded with a demonstration by the IIUM Silat Seni Gayong Club, showcasing
advanced self-defense techniques and inspiring participants to pursue further training. The
Principal of Mahallah Sumayyah, Dr. Shamshina Mohamad Hanifa, expressed her gratitude for
the strong support: “We are thrilled by the turnout and enthusiasm. This workshop marks just
the beginning of empowering our women, giving them the skills and confidence they deserve,” she said.

As IIUM continues to prioritize the safety and well-being of its community, this workshop
represents a significant step toward creating a safer and more inclusive campus for all.***